Mahatma red beans and rice instant pot

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Instant Pot Popeye’s Copy Cat Red Beans and Rice is bursting with flavor! Creamy, flavorful, and the right amount of Cajun spice to kick it up a notch. 

If you enjoy Popeyes than lake this Copycat red beans and rice at home to pair with dinner tonight! Pair with some fried chicken and dive in! 

Popeyes Copycat Instant Pot Red Beans and Rice 

My husband actually loved this recipe. At first when I said what I was making he looked at me like I couldn’t nail the flavor. Popeyes beans are magical so I had a lot to live up to! But, I pulled it off and he was impressed. 

Does Popeyes Red Beans and Rice Have Pork In It

The actual recipe does not have meat in it but does use pork fat. Liquid smoke is what is used to help give it that meaty flavor without having the meat in it. 

You will find many copycat recipes do feature a ham bone or ham in it. This helps to achieve its classic flavor. It isn’t wrong to add meat, so feel free to do so if you want some heartier beans.

What Is The Difference Between Red Beans and Kidney Beans

Red beans and kidney beans get people confused often. Red beans are smaller in size compared to a kidney bean. But they can be swapped out in many recipes as the flavor they showcase is very similar. 

What Sides Go With Red Beans and Rice 

• Cornbread | Sweet or savory cornbread is up to you! Both will work great for pairing next to your red beans and rice. 
• Collard Greens | A classic side to go right next to your red beans. Add in some bacon and dive in and enjoy the southern classic flavors. 
• Vegetable | Cook up your favorite vegetable side and pair next to your beans. Green beans, broccoli, etc.

How Can I Thicken My Red Beans and Rice

If you find your beans are not thick enough to meet your standards, this is an easy fix. Simply add to 2 tablespoons of cornstarch to 2 tablespoons of water, and then mix it up until thin. Then pour into the red beans and rice and stir, while it is still piping hot (or even boiling). This will thicken your beans without affecting the flavor. You can repeat if need be. 

More Copy-Cat Recipes in the Instant Pot

Panera’s Broccoli and Cheddar Soup, Olive Garden Zuppa Tuscan Soup, Applebees Copy Cat Spinach, and Artichoke Dip.

Best Way To Store Leftover Popeyes Copycat Red Beans and Rice 

Grab an airtight container and store it in your fridge. These beans and rice need to be refrigerated or they will go bad. Store for 3-5 days in the fridge. Reheat in microwave for a quick reheat or opt to warm them up on the stove. If you do the stovetop stir often, to prevent burning. If your beans are too thick add in a splash of stock or water. 

If you are a fan of Popeyes  I highly suggest trying my Instant pot version. You can get the incredible flavor just like at your favorite restaurant. 

Ingredients

• 2 tbs olive oil 
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1 onion chopped
• Dry red beans 16 oz
• 1/2 tbsp liquid smoke
• 1 tsp Slap Yo Mama Seasoning or cajun seasoning
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes 
• 2 Cups cooked rice
• 6 Cups chicken or ham broth 

Instructions

1. Place Pot on Saute.
2. Add olive oil, garlic, and onions.
3. Add dry beans. (no need to presoak)
4. Add broth, liquid smoke, and seasonings.
5. Stir everything.
6. Place on Manual High Pressure for 90 Minutes.
7. Do a natural release for 20 minutes.
8. Serve over rice.

Notes

*updated the seasonings as people thought it was too spicy 🙂

Nutrition Information:

Yield: 10 Serving Size: 1
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 317Total Fat: 14gSaturated Fat: 3gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 76mgSodium: 1373mgCarbohydrates: 22gFiber: 4gSugar: 1gProtein: 25g